Much ado is being made about a letter reportedly given to Pope Francis on June 23 that claims the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) is being treated unfairly by the Vatican.

In 2012, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) mandated a reform of the group because of significant doctrinal errors, and this April, Cardinal Gerhard Müller, prefect of the CDF, re-emphasized terms of the mandate during the LCWR’s annual visit to the Vatican.

The June 23 letter has not been released by the two groups behind it, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good (CACG) and Franciscan Action Network. However, a National Catholic Reporter blog quoted the letter in part, which claimed that the Vatican treatment of the LCWR had been “unjust.”

According to the blog entry, the letter said that the Vatican had “ignored” Pope Francis’s “call for a ‘poor church working on behalf of the poor,’” and claimed that the “unselfish service” of the sisters “is the most authentic demonstration of your vision of our beloved Church.”

The blog reported that the letter was signed by “half a dozen theologians, the heads of Catholics in Alliance [for the Common Good] and the Franciscan Action Network, and former leaders of the Center of Concern and the Catholic Theological Society of America.”

A closer look at the main group behind the letter reveals that this is not simply an effort to support sisters who work with the poor, for the CACG has a history of trying to change Church teachings on some of the very issues the CDF has raised with the LCWR, particularly in the area of the family and human sexuality.

Other issues such as women’s ordination to the priesthood, the nature of God, and bioethical subjects also intersect this campaign to modify or nullify Church teachings.

The CACG claims a mission of promoting “public policies and effective programs that enhance the inherent dignity of all, especially the poor and most vulnerable,” “inspired by Gospel values and the rich history of Catholic social teaching as they inform pressing moral issues of our time.”

However, the group’s main activity has been political, promoting progressive politicians, most of whom support abortion rights and other issues that are in conflict with Church teachings. CACG tends to come and go, snoozing during off-election years, and then finding new life for mid-term and presidential elections. CACG has a history of seeing the Catholic moral code as somehow in conflict with, and impeding Catholic social justice, which it seems to define quite subjectively, in great variance to Catholic social teaching.

Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia observed in 2008, when he was archbishop of Denver, that Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good was among the groups that had “done a disservice to the Church, confused the natural priorities of Catholic social teaching, undermined the progress pro-lifers have made, and provided an excuse for some Catholics to abandon the abortion issue instead of fighting within their parties and at the ballot box to protect the unborn.”

The Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights reported that same year that CACG received substantial funds from billionaire abortion-rights supporter George Soros.

In a June 18 essay, chairman of the board of CACG, Alfred Rotondaro, scolded the U.S. bishops for focusing too much on abortion, traditional marriage and religious liberty at their June 11-13 spring meeting:

“Their focus on these three issues to the detriment of others that also affect millions of Americans on a daily basis has hindered their ability to be more effective voices of moral authority,” Rotondaro wrote.

He said that the bishops “should learn from the experiences of those who today are living the faith of Jesus Christ in the streets,” using the examples of Sister of Social Service Simone Campbell of Nuns on the Bus, and Daughter of Charity Sister Carol Keehan, president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association, both of whom led Catholic support for Obamacare.

Rotondaro also is a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, a Democratic think tank that likewise has been funded by George Soros. In a May 25, 2010, blog on the Huffington Post, Rotondaro had called for a new Vatican council to reconsider some issues: “The place to start is with the role of women in the Church. I have never seen any rational reason why a woman could not be a priest. Why can’t this be openly discussed? Will St. Peter’s sink into the Tiber if it is?”

For a “rational reason,” one need go no further than the founder of our Church, Jesus Christ himself.

“A second point is the theme of sex,” Rotondaro continued. “Sex comes from God. It should be celebrated. Gay sex comes from God. Married sex without the intent of procreation is now an evil, according to the hierarchy. But does any practicing Catholic under age 80 believe this? And in a pluralistic nation like America, we must realize that abortion is here to stay. We must examine the reasons for abortion and deal with those reasons to reduce abortions.”

In how many ways is this incorrect? One has to wonder if the author is truly Catholic when he says these things.

Among members of the CACG Advisory Council is Mercy Sister Mary Waskowiak, who was LCWR president in 1997. Several priests also are listed as members: Jesuit Fathers David Hollenbach and James Keenan of Boston College, Thomas Reese of the Reporter, and Charles Currie of Jesuit Commons. Jesuit Father William Byron of St. Joseph’s University is on the board of trustees.

While the letter to Pope Francis may cause a temporary stir in Catholic circles, it will be old news to the Holy See, which is accustomed to Church reform groups seizing on any opportunity to plead their cause and make a few headlines, demanding how the Church should change to suit us instead of the opposite.

The last two are fairly small, but they are new. The Brides of the Victorious Lamb was formed after this group severed ties with another organization. The Sisters of Santa Rosa are fairly new, and very traditional. Sometimes, the Sisters of Santa Rosa attend the TLM with a priest affiliated with the FSSP.

Note that all of these four orders where habits, and the first two orders listed have thriving congregations of women under 40, where most of the orders affiliated with the LCWR are 60+.

When I have done vocation retreats, the young ladies under 35 always ask who the “real nuns” are - and the “real nuns” wear habits.

Posted by ANNE on Tuesday, Jul, 15, 2014 6:42 AM (EST):

Jonna Jenkins, I hope you are correct, and that I will never be a heretic or schismatic.
As Jesus stated in Jn 7:24 -“Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment”.
Both the Bible and the CCC should be in every home and read by all, so that we will not be lead astray accidentally or purposely.
Heretics and schismatics do not like them - in entirety.
.
“….. let us ask ourselves if we have actually taken a few steps to get to know Christ and the truths of faith more, by reading and meditating on the Scriptures, studying the Catechism, steadily approaching the Sacraments.” - Pope Francis, May 15, 2013.

Posted by Jonna Jenkins on Tuesday, Jul, 15, 2014 3:38 AM (EST):

ANNE, since you like quoting sources, you might consult the Gospels occasionally. Matthew 7:12 and the measure by which you measure will be measured out to you.

Theresa H., sorry that you do like the official Church definitions. I am providing them so you will be certain to know what they are. Accuracy is important.
.
CCC: ” 2089 INCREDULITY is the neglect of revealed truth or the willful refusal to assent to it.
HERESY is the obstinate post-baptismal denial of some truth which must be believed with divine and catholic faith, or it is likewise an obstinate doubt concerning the same;
APOSTACY is the total repudiation of the Christian faith;
SCHISM is the refusal of submission to the Roman Pontiff or of communion with the members of the Church subject to him. “

Posted by Jonna Jenkins on Monday, Jul, 14, 2014 7:43 PM (EST):

ANNE, you excel in name calling.

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 9:03 PM (EST):

Hope you had a chance to visit the web site: “What Catholics REALLY Believe SOURCE”
http://whatcatholicsreallybelieve.com/

Many Catholics in the USA don’t even know the CCC exists. This is very sad.
I know of 2 non-Catholics who read the CCC, and decided to become Catholic.
_________________

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 8:57 PM (EST):

The Compendium does have value, for those short on time or unable to understand, etc.
I personally would have it used for junior high through grade 10, if one chooses not to use YOUCAT.
.
Here is the teaching on ‘homosexual’ from the Compendium - #492
Here is the teaching on ‘homosexual’ from the CCC #2357, 2358, 2359 & 2396.
In addition in the CCC see the footnotes which contains related Bible passages etc.
The difference in the level of teaching is huge.
.
Pope Benedict was doing everything possible for catechesis. He knew how bad it has been throughout the world.
.
All Catholic catechisms must be approved from the Vatican, and there are local catechisms (such as the USCCB’s) allowed for differences of age, maturity, ability to understand, etc.
They must all draw from the CCC, but will not be as complete.
________________________

Posted by Theresa H on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 7:20 PM (EST):

Thank you Ann! I happily stand corrected! What you refer to is found in the “Introduction” to the “Compendium of the CCC.” I was quoting from the “Moto Proprio” of Pope Benedict XVI which precedes the “Introduction” in the Compendium…. At the same time, it still seems to me there is some “usefulness” for the Compendium. (I would think the Holy See would withdraw it from further publication otherwise….) Also, as I mentioned, our CCC Study Group prefers the full CCC. But, I do wonder how widely used the full CCC is…? From what I have seen, there are many adult “Catechisms” in Catholic Bookstores today; including the USCCB’s version. Ultimately, hopefully, they all draw from the official full “Vatican Edition” of the “Catechism of the Catholic Church!”

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 5:54 PM (EST):

Theresa H. You left out a few important things.
1) “The Compendium is not a work that stands alone, nor is it intended in any way to replace the Catechism of the Catholic Church: ....In fact, the Compendium is meant to reawaken interest in and enthusiasm for the Catechism, which, in the wisdom of its presentation and the depth of its spirituality, always remains the basic text for catechesis in the Church today” - Pope Benedict, Compendium Introduction.
.
2)Who do you think had a very heavy influence in the writing of the CCC? - Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict).
.
3) Check out this site for quotes about the CCC from Popes John Paul II, Benedict and Francis - “What Catholics REALLY Believe SOURCE”
http://whatcatholicsreallybelieve.com/
It also includes a short video.
____________________

Posted by Theresa H on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 5:42 PM (EST):

“Sister S.”: I am so glad to read that there are going to be changes in the LCWR. Dare I speak for all reading this “Discussion”—that we will pray that the new President of the LCWR will truly lead LCWR and all the communities the Leaders represent to be “obedient” (they do take a vow of obedience…) toward the Congregation for Religious in Rome—and all that the Catholic Church teaches in matters of faith and morals.

Posted by Theresa H on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 5:16 PM (EST):

Lily, you put it so well: “I refuse to pick a side and be labeled conservative or liberal or Republican or Democrat. My faith is not political! We are either for Christ or we are against him. Choose ye this day whom ye will serve… Let’s put Christ back at the center of our lives and our hearts! Let us, together, reject Satan’s attempt to parse out the Body of Christ into manageable, politicized chunks. Together in Christ, nothing can touch us. Separated, we will fall.” THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Posted by Theresa H on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 5:04 PM (EST):

No doubt about it, the official Vatican English Edition of the “Catechism of the Catholic Church” (CCC) may be preferable. (It is the one we use in our CCC Study Group Class every Monday evening.) Nonetheless, the “Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church” (CCCC) has the official seal of approval of Pope Benedict XVI: “....It contains, in concise form, all the essential and fundamental elements of the Church’s faith….In its structure, contents, and language, the ‘Compendium’ faithfully reflects the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’ and will thus assist in making the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’ more widely known and more deeply understood. I entrust this ‘Compendium’ above all to the entire Church, and in particular, to every Christian, in order that it may awaken in the Church of the third millennium renewed zeal for evangelization and education in the faith….But this Compendium, with its brevity, clarity, and comprehensiveness, is directed to every human being, who, in a world of distractions and multifarious messages, desires to know the Way of Life, the Truth, entrusted by God to His Son’s Church….” (From the “Motu Proprio” by Pope Benedict XVI, 28 June 2005, at the beginning of the CCCC)

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 4:40 PM (EST):

@Sister S, what Order of Nuns does she belong to?
.
There really is no need for a Country-wide Organization of Nuns in the USA. Each Order has their own calling.
.
The Church needs faithful Nuns regarding the Bible, the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition” and the Magisterium - in entirety
not picking and choosing or advocating changes to Church teaching.
.
Neither the Laity nor the Church needs Nuns out in POLITICS,
or Nuns who publically take positions against our Bishops - which is not their role.
Will they try to undo some of the evil they perpetrated on the Catholic Laity with their public support of Obamacare?
.
It is difficult for me to trust the LCWR at all - especially since they have aligned themselves with the heretical and schismatic groups in this article.
It’s time for them to go, unless there is an overwhelming benefit to the Church and the Laity.

Posted by Sister S on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 4:01 PM (EST):

Jonna Jenkins and Faithful Catholic,

The LCWR is not a monolith. Sadly, it has let the far-left speak for it’s members, resulting in a break-down in communication with the Vatican.

The next LCWR President is middle of the road and understands what the church wants and is going to bring changes to the organization.

She’s a canon lawyer who worked at the Sacred Congregation, has helped write major documents on religious life. She knows her stuff. None of the self- professed progressives are on par with her credentials.

Posted by John on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 2:27 PM (EST):

Are you sure it’s not LGBTLCWR? Or is it just me?

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 11:40 AM (EST):

If you can read and understand this quote, you can read and understand the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition” (1997).
.
CCC: “1791 This ignorance can often be imputed to personal responsibility.
This is the case when a man “takes little trouble to find out what is true and good,
or when conscience is by degrees almost blinded through the habit of committing sin.”
In such cases, the person is culpable for the evil he commits. “

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 11:37 AM (EST):

Studying or reading the CCC is only ‘daunting’ to those who are trying to discourage others of normal literate and normal mental skills.
In the USA, all normal literate persons over age 15 should have no problem with reading or understanding the Bible and CCC.
.
Group programs are good, but the vast majority of people have schedules and/or obligations that do not permit attending parish classes on a regular basis.
.
There is no excuse for people who can read this media site to NOT know their Faith in entirety; and then to act accordingly.
.
“….the CATECHISM has raised throughout the world, even among non-Christians,
and confirms its purpose of being presented as a full, complete exposition of Catholic doctrine, enabling everyone to know what the Church professes, celebrates, lives, and prays in her daily life.” – Pope John Paul II (CCC pg xiv)
___________

Posted by Theresa H on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 9:19 AM (EST):

Regarding the official “Catechism of the Catholic Church”(CCC), reading it may seem a daunting task to set out on for some people, considering that it is a very large book…. However, it is divided into 4 main sections: The Profession of Faith; The Celebration of the Christian Mystery (the Sacraments); Life in Christ; and Christian Prayer.” There is also a book called: “Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.” Some might prefer to start with the “Compendium” and refer to the full Catechism for more detail as need be….Also, some parishes offer a “CCC Study Group;” this is very helpful as long as the facilitator (may or may not be a priest) has enough knowledge to respond to questions….I must say: it is a rewarding experience to share our faith with one another in such a study group. How often, otherwise, do we talk about our faith with others? Why is it, that there is so little interest in learning more about our Catholic Faith?

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 7:10 AM (EST):

This is why heretics and schismatics do not like the CCC -
.
“ The Catechism of the Catholic Church, which I approved … and the publication of which I today order by virtue of my Apostolic Authority, is a statement of the Church’s faith and of catholic doctrine, attested to or illumined by Sacred Scripture, the Apostolic Tradition and the Church’s Magisterium.” - Pope John Paul II (CCC pg 5)
.
“….the CATECHISM has raised throughout the world, even among non-Christians,
and confirms its purpose of being presented as a full, complete exposition of Catholic doctrine,
enabling everyone to know what the Church professes, celebrates, lives, and prays in her daily life.” – Pope John Paul II (CCC pg xiv)
.
“...let us ask ourselves if we have actually taken a few steps to get to know Christ and the truths of faith more, by reading and meditating on the Scriptures, studying the Catechism,
steadily approaching the Sacraments.” Pope Francis, May 15, 2013.
____________________________

Posted by ANNE on Saturday, Jul, 12, 2014 7:03 AM (EST):

@Jonna Jenkins, apparently you did not read documentation that was provided with this article.
Everything in red is a link to documentation.
You should purchase the book by author Ann Carey - “Sisters in Crisis: The Tragic Unraveling of Women’s Religious Communities”, perhaps you would learn something.
This article accurate.
I recommend everyone save it as a favorite for future use, so you will have the added documentation.
.
In order that you and your loved ones will not be lead astray by heretical or schismatic Clergy or Nuns, I recommend that every Catholic read on a regular basis: a Catholic BIBLE;
and the “CATECHISM of the CATHOLIC CHURCH, Second Edition” (- 1997, aka CCC).
Please help spread the word.
.
Btw: National Catholic REPORTER, LCWR, Network, Nuns on the Bus, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, Catholics for Obama, Franciscan Action Network, and other heretical groups do not like the CCC and try to suppress it,
and discourage people from reading it.
The CCC must be taken in entirety, and their heresies and schisms are shown to be glaring.
__________

Posted by Theresa H on Friday, Jul, 11, 2014 8:34 PM (EST):

A few years ago, I was invited to attend a meeting of Sisters similar to those referred to in this article. (I had no idea, no experience of such a thing—of what they were about….) Suffice it to say, I’ll never attend such a gathering again. Not for nothing did Jesus speak of “wolves in sheep’s clothing” and warn us to “beware” of them…. The fact is today there are some nuns (and priests) who are leading people astray and it is not “gossip” or “slander” to warn others of such groups. This kind of thing has been going on all through the centuries; some have been formally identified as “heretics.” St. Paul told the early Christians to be watchful; we must do the same today!

Posted by Jonna Jenkins on Thursday, Jul, 10, 2014 7:53 PM (EST):

The author of this piece and most commenters should be ashamed. Gossip, slander, detraction, bearing false witness and mean spiritness are not Christian virtues. Please learn to speak only when you are certain that you know what you are talking about, don’t simply pass on half truths and innuendos from second, third and fourth-hand sources. Show some dignity and prudence.

Posted by Theresa H on Tuesday, Jul, 8, 2014 4:40 PM (EST):

Jesus permitted Judas to walk among His disciples; I suspect there will be Judas’ around until the End of Time. The solution for people of faith is to hold fast to “Peter,” to His (Jesus’) Church and never forget the solemn promise Jesus made (indirectly, to all of us): “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my Church…and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Mt. 16:18ff)

Posted by K.C.Thomas on Sunday, Jul, 6, 2014 4:27 AM (EST):

The Catholic Church is not a democracy where everything can be decided on the basis of majority votes. We believe in a Church established by Jesus and given poser to administer. If some hesitate to follow this or believe in this will please restrain from throwing stones at us. Some lay persons and some clervy assume themselves as all knowledgeable and superior to the duly constituted authority. Beware.

Posted by Robert on Saturday, Jul, 5, 2014 11:51 PM (EST):

Waah waah waah. CDF isn’t treating LCWR any rougher than they are treating the Franciscan Friars (and Sisters) of the Immaculate.

Posted by Maria Kavu on Friday, Jul, 4, 2014 7:39 PM (EST):

These sisters are bad apples, they need to be placed where they belong…in the garbage..

Posted by ANNE on Thursday, Jul, 3, 2014 9:08 AM (EST):

This is what happens when all Seminaries and Convents do not require the full reading and study of the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”.
.
Heretics and Schismatics like LCRW, Network, Nuns on the Bus, Catholics Alliance for the Common Good, Franciscan Action Network, etc make up their own beliefs then ignorant lemmings follow.
,
Heretics and schismatics hate the CCC.
______________________

Posted by Ed Hamilton on Tuesday, Jul, 1, 2014 11:19 AM (EST):

With these revelations, I would think we could just dissolve the group or require orders to no longer belong to this group. I’m wondering if the author can add why something like this could or could not be. Is there challenges that would make such a move not worth it? Taking money for church enemies is so extreme! They are not really a Catholic group anymore!

Posted by Tom in AZ on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 2:55 PM (EST):

@Faithful Catholic: “Catholics for the Common Good” is significantly more falsely named than “German Christians” or “Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association”—since the former was at least German (in that they were a propaganda-arm of the Nazis), and the latter is at least Chinese, and “patriotic”, for a given value of “patriotism”. “Catholics for the Common Good”, on the other hand, are not only OSTENTATIOUSLY not Catholic, they aren’t actually for the common good, either—they’re for the good of one particular political clique, the left wing of the Democratic Party.

Posted by Patches on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 2:19 PM (EST):

Thank you, Dan Burke!

Posted by Gwen on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 1:42 PM (EST):

We must love the sinner and not the sin, we ARE called to teach and live our faith, we are not judging or calling anyone names. I would like to point out that the 10 Commandments did not come with exceptions, they did include thou shall not kill and thou shall not commit adultery.(Period)
If you want to teach/believe God thinks these should be allowed then join another church but do not change mine. God Bless!

Posted by ANNE on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 1:11 PM (EST):

@Faithful Catholic, you are not a “faithful” Catholic when you support organizations that purport to be Catholic yet purposely violate the “Doctrine of the Faith” - which is stated in the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”.
In fact, that would make you a Catholic heretic or Catholic schismatic - using Church definitions (CCC 2089).
You may want to change your posting name to a much more accurate/honest description.
.
“WORTHINESS to RECEIVE HOLY COMMUNUNION - General Principles” Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict)
http://www.priestsforlife.org/magisterium/bishops/04-07ratzingerommunion.htm
(Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, and LCWR (including their Network and Nuns on a Bus) support political candidates that support abortion and/or euthanasia.)

Posted by Faithful Catholic on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 11:13 AM (EST):

Thanks for the snarky article, Ann. Talk about playing politics! Sending donations to the LCWR and Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good.

Posted by Dan Burke on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 8:51 AM (EST):

@Bill Mosca - I have reviewed the comments and thus far, boundaries of charity have not been violated.

Posted by dontex on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 6:17 AM (EST):

“Lord God, you love mercy and tenderness; you give life and overcome death. Look upon the many wounds of your Church; restore it to health by your risen Son, so that it may sing a new song in your praise.”

This prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours (Monday 6/30/14) is worthy of our repetition so that groups like the LCWR and CACG might see the truth as proclaimed by the Church and abandon their attempts to weaken or destroy the Bride of Christ.

Posted by Vance on Monday, Jun, 30, 2014 12:52 AM (EST):

I continue to ask, “Why are these radicals not kicked out of the church a long time age?”

Posted by Terran Williams on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 8:18 PM (EST):

Why does Pope Francis not excommunicate this group instead of letting them stay in the Church and cause division and sin and confusion?

Posted by Robert A.Rowland on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 5:23 PM (EST):

The “Spirit of Vatican II” rides roughshod again over the Hew Evangelization and de fide doctrine. What can you expect when three-fourths of those who say they are Catholic are in reality apostate. When will there be the renewal that Pope John XXIII intended. Evangelization is proportional to belief in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. We may have a chance to recover it when only consecrated hands can touch the Body of Christ and sacred vessels as dictated by the doctrinal council Vatican I. How long will dissidents be allowed to try to overrule Magisterial teaching?

Posted by IHM/MERCY on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 2:48 PM (EST):

The members of these orders and others are suffering from arrested development.
If they do not want to adhere to the Magesterium let them march, have sit ins , go on hunger strikes , have a rally, a march on The Vatican. They equate their “equality” to equal voting rights, skin color, ...
Many are counseling that SSM is “equality”.
Same sex attraction is not a sin. We are called to love. Same sex marriage is not complementary and is NOT sanctioned by the Catholic Church. We are all called to lead a chaste life.
Why don’t these ‘religious’ become a priest or bishop in another religion. They certainly are not models of the Mother of God, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Posted by ANNE on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 5:04 AM (EST):

It’s past time for each Diocese Bishop, and his Diocese Priests to teach about the “INTRINSIC EVILS” which include: Abortion, Euthanasia, (Embryonic) Stem Cell Research, Cloning, and Homosexual Marriage.
There is no debate or negotiating or prudential judgment about intrinsic evils.
.
And that every Catholic citizen must VOTE. (CCC 2240)
See: “WORTHINESS to RECEIVE HOLY COMMUNION - General Principles” by Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict).
http://www.priestsforlife.org/magisterium/bishops/04-07ratzingerommunion.htm
.
Remember that Party Platforms state the goals of each political Party.
Check them out at a National as well as State level.
Most can be found on the internet.
.
And if you read a Catholic Bible, and the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition” in entirety - you can spot Catholic heretics and schismatics almost immediately.
These will leave out important parts of Church teachings or twist them to suit their own political beliefs - and on occasion these will be some Nuns and Clergy at various levels.
Know your Faith - accurately and completely !
_______________________________

Posted by ANNE on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 4:24 AM (EST):

I hope that everyone will write to Pope Francis and the US Papal Nuncio regarding the LCWR, Network, and “Nuns on the Bus” (of the same bunch).
No matter which name they use, they are heretics and schismatics. (See CCC 2089 for Church definitions.)
They do not adhere to the Doctrine of the Faith as defined in the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”.
.
Here is the politics/history of ‘Catholic Alliance for the Common’ plus several other groups.
Intrinsic Evils such as abortion, euthanasia, etc. mean nothing to them.
It is important to understand who the players are, and how they are being financed,etc.
Educate yourself and pass this on to others.
Written Documentation is provided as well as the video.
See: * * * “OBAMA’s COUNTERFEIT CATHOLICS”.
http://www.churchmilitant.tv/cia/02fake/
.
Make no mistake about it. It is all about politics (and funding).
Their actions are right in line with marxist Saul Alinsky’s book: “Rules for Radicals”.
Interestingly this book was dedicated to “Lucifer - the first radical known to man who rebelled against the establishment and did it so effectively that he at least won his own kingdom”.
- -“True revolutionaries do not flaunt their radicalism, Alinsky taught. They cut their hair, put on suits and infiltrate the system from within. Alinsky viewed revolution as a slow, patient process. The trick was to penetrate existing institutions such as churches, unions and political parties…”
http://www.crossroad.to/Quotes/communism/alinsky.htm
and
http://www.bestofbeck.com/wp/activism/saul-alinskys-12-rules-for-radicals
_________________________

Posted by Tom in AZ on Sunday, Jun, 29, 2014 12:06 AM (EST):

Wait, “Sex comes from God”, so all sex has to be celebrated? How about adultery, should we celebrate that? How about incest? You can find more cultures with sibling marriage than gay marriage (because “about three” is more than “exactly zero”)—if this yahoo cared about “pluralism” he’d be advocating a right to marry siblings (and even more than that, polygamy), not “gay rights”, which is essentially unique to modern white people.
-
And with regard to “pluralism” vis-a-vis abortion…how about honor-killing? Should we, “in a pluralistic nation like America”, accept honor-killing? What about Thugee stranger-murder? Aztecs dancing in the flayed skin of youths and maidens, in honor of Xipe Totec and the coming of spring? I mean, if we have to accept abortion “in a pluralistic nation like America”, why don’t we have to accept those things?

Posted by Hugh McLoughlin on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 11:46 PM (EST):

Anne, you write: “One has to wonder if the author is truly Catholic when he says these things.” Wonder no more. He ain’t!

Activists in LCWR, CACG, etc.,—who behave as if “they are the source of Truth”—should be charitably, calmly publicly advised that one’s most CRUCIAL goal in life is to AVOID being among the “weepers and ‘gnashers’-of-teeth” at the final Judgment. Indeed for too many, their worm in Hell “that dieth-not” will be the *constant SELF-accusation* that they are there because they stubbornly made themselves to be the source of truth! My prayer is that they return to being Magisterium-faithful, trusting in God’s guidance.

Posted by Rosemarie Kury on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 8:18 PM (EST):

I was shocked too see how many religious orders belong to the LCWR. Mone group is very active in our diocese. Teaching nuns from my childhood belong to this organization. Now, before I give to any Diocesan Charity or for a plea for donations from a religious group I’m very careful that they’re not clinging to the beliefs that the LCWR has.

Furthermore, why aren’t diocesan bishops questioning this! Some of these nuns in charge or teaching children in CCD classes! I know of at least two girls, my nieces, who were taught by a group of sisters affiliated with this group who no longer practice their faith and are atheists. So parents, please investigate if this is occurring in your parishes,

All well and good to be helping the poor and educating children, but if you are eliminating Church teachings or prayer you are no better than social workers or social activist teachers.

Posted by SMARA on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 4:36 PM (EST):

“Moving beyond Jesus and the Church.” Why are they so afraid to call God by His Name. I have more in common with evangelicals than I do with these sisters. Do we even belong to the same church? They don’t say the same prayers, they no longer attend Mass, they no longer profess the Creeds the ways the Church believes in them. They refuse to address the Trinity the way the Church professes. Have you seen their so called “Liturgies?” The resemble the flower children of the 1960’s waving their banners, puppets and flowers. They refer to the names of God as understood by both scripture and tradition as inventions by an all oppressive male hierarchy. Their words, new age expressions and emphasis on feminist and social ideologies are beyond weird. If you visit their convents, they replaced our sacred symbols for rocks and labyrinths. They speak of the “Holy Mystery” because they refuse to acknowledge Jesus Christ. Their “sacred spaces” are so non-Catholic that a group of Wiccas would feel very comfortable there. They are supposed to be Christians. Why are they so afraid to declare that Jesus is Lord and Redeemer. Oh, I forgot. Lord and Redeemer are war images that no longer have any meaning for them. Throughout history, Satan has always attacked the name of God. Some of these sisters are now doing his bidding.

Posted by K.C.Thomas on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 12:31 PM (EST):

The criticism of Church teachings is not jut to be ignored. We cannot emply diplomacy here.If one says that there is nothing wrong in a casual infidelity or there is nothing wrong in a mutual consent divorce, can we couch our response in diplomatic language and ignoring the truth we believe and uphold ?

Posted by Bill Mosca on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 12:13 PM (EST):

Having read some of the earlier comments, methinks that some of those who comment have not read the “discussion guidelines”: Charity is our first rule. If you can’t communicate charitably, then please don’t comment. We encourage lively and honest discussion of our content. While we know that there will be disagreements, and that our readers can be very passionate, we ask that you disagree respectfully without personal attacks, sarcasm, name-calling, bullying, libel, defamation, or obscenities. ... We want to keep our forum a place of respectful, charitable and honest dialogue for all our readers.

Posted by K.C.Thomas on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 11:56 AM (EST):

Rotondaro does not sound a Catholic.As he wants the Church to abandon its teachings on sexual ethics,it may be better to establish his own Church instead of trying to change Catholic Church.I feel that if his liberal views on sexual ethics are to be adopted by society,what a permissive society we will be building ! The crux of the problem is sin. If sex is more recreation and not procreation ,there cannot be any restrictions for any sort of concensual togetherness or union. Does God exist and if so does he take sex seriosly ?

Posted by Patches on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 11:17 AM (EST):

These ” nuns”! The minute they got out of their traditional habits( their mode of dress), they actually got rid of their ingrained habits, I remember a nun telling me: you do not recognize me, do you? My response was: no, I am afraid I do not know who you are. She responded by giving me her name & said,“I have liberated myself!”
My response was: Well, Sister, you have liberated yourself to all the things I find offensive in the world. You now have to worry about your hair, the color of your stockings, the length of your skirt, your shoes, ad infinitum, when indeed, you would be better served if you were kneeling in front of the Blessed Sacrament, praying for all of us, instead of wasting your time on your liberated self!
They just don’t get it! & yes, they are 60’s radicals!

Posted by Lily on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 9:47 AM (EST):

Satan’s attempt to “divide and conquer” the Body of Christ is alive and well. By politicizing the Catholic Church into a grid of social justice causes and polarizing its adherents, Satan attempts to take down the whole of the Church, systematically, one chunk/group/contingency at a time.

This is a time for Catholics to make a decision about Whom they will serve. No longer can there be this vacillating between poles and hedging one’s bets.

I refuse to pick a side and be labeled conservative or liberal or Republican or Democrat. My faith is not political! We are either for Christ or we are against him. Choose ye this day whom ye will serve…

Let’s put Christ back at the center of our lives and our hearts! Let us, together, reject Satan’s attempt to parse out the Body of Christ into manageable, politicized chunks. Together in Christ, nothing can touch us. Separated, we will fall.

Posted by BenDodsonicn on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 8:40 AM (EST):

The individual nuns do things for the poor.
The LCWR which is a small group of about 1500, does nothing for the poor. During their annual meetings, they discuss how to “give birth to God” and explore how “the universe is conscious”. These are a group of weird, New Age nuns who really have nothing to do with the poor. Their materials constantly harp on about career enhancement for themselves.

Time for them to leave the church. They are just embarassing, old, activists from the 60’s.

Posted by Carolyn on Saturday, Jun, 28, 2014 8:06 AM (EST):

“Pope Francis’call of a poor church working for the poor.” And how much longer are these groups going to hijak the poor for political purposes. Reading the article you would think these demands were made by a group of rebellious teenagers. I want,I need ,I demand! Yes,the poor need material things and we do appreciate all that the sisters do. But when will they see people are also hungry for guidance and direction. Take a good look at who they are aligning themselves with. Clearly they are being used for political purposes. Sisters, ask Mr. Soros or some of your other donors the last time they gave of themselves for another human being.Oh wait, I know,there is someone, his name is Jesus Christ! Remember him. He is the Church. He mentioned now and then that we would be not have an easy time in this life but it’s not about being on terms with the world.If you would truly listen to Pope Francis instead of stealing quotes from him for your playbook he speaks also that evil is present in our world and that the devil is “the father of lies.” It’s time we as a Church come back home to the truth no matter what the cost. Those clergy who are out there like Archbishop Chaput and the nameless others who serve without recognition or the media’s adoration ,they are the Church. I truly to pray someday that we will “All will be one.”

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Ann Carey

Ann Carey is a veteran journalist who has written hundreds of articles for many prestigious Catholic publications during her 31-year career in the Catholic press. She is a member of the Catholic Press Association and has won awards for news and feature writing, as well as investigative reporting. Her specialty is women religious, and she is working on a new, updated edition of her book, Sisters in Crisis: The Tragic Unraveling of Women’s Religious Communities, to be published by Ignatius Press. She and her husband live in Indiana and are the parents of three grown children.